Been on previous cycling trip in this region which was great, some people had own saddles or gel covers and raved about them, we didn't and had no problems. Just ring GP surgery and they check online what you need re vaccinations. If you don't have the right medication you can buy almost anything over the counter.

I am joining you on the trip to Vietnam and Laos. Looking forward to meeting you.

I had my vaccinations today - HepA, Typhoid and DTP - I decided against rabies - hope I don't end up regretting that. I keep forgetting to pick up malaria tablets but my doctor tells me I need them. I guess I'm going to take Dioralyte, Imodium, paracetamol with me - probably not much else - maybe some antihistamines.

I'm thinking about bringing my own saddle - I will definitely bring a gel seat cover - I have one so may as well bring it with me. Getting the saddle off my existing bike will probably be too annoying and so I won't bother.

I did the Vietnam cycling trip a few years ago and loved it, although I wasn't really fit enough (and probably won't be again). I live in Holland and cycle a lot here (to and from the shops and work and that sort of thing), but the advice to get lots of hill cycling practice in was a bit tricky to follow!